Anglers of all ages and skill levels are invited to participate in the Garden State Surf Fishing Classic, the state’s premier fishing tournament being held Sunday, May 17, at Island Beach State Park in Ocean County.

Registration begins at 5 a.m. for those who are not pre-registered. Fishing will take place from 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The angler who catches the longest fish will win the Governor’s Award and have their name engraved on the Governor’s Cup. The Cup is permanently displayed at Island Beach State Park. They will also receive a plaque along with a prize fishing rod and reel. Prizes will be given to winners in a variety of age groups and fish species categories as well.

The Garden State Surf Fishing Classic is sponsored by NJDEP Fish & Wildlife, New Jersey State Parks, New Jersey State Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, Jersey Coast Anglers Association, and New Jersey Beach Buggy Association.

The registration fee on the day of the tournament is $20 for anglers aged 18 and older and $5 for ages 13 to 17. Staff will only be accepting cash or checks. There is no fee for children aged 12 and under, and student teams. Admission to the park is free for all registrants.

All funds raised by the tournament are used to improve beach access, construct access ramps for disabled saltwater anglers, support surf fishing instruction programs, and develop marine education and restoration projects.

Prior to arriving at the event, all anglers must complete the NJ Saltwater Recreational Registry. Registration is free. Visit https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/fishing/marine/saltwater-registry/ to register.

The Registry is an important tool NJDEP Fish & Wildlife staff use to collect data that guides the management of marine resources and ensures the long-term sustainability of recreational fishing.

For more information about the Garden State Surf Fishing Classic, including a list of past winners, visit https://dep.nj.gov/.../garden-state-surf-fishing-classic/.